Writers from around the world are invited to submit their scripts for the 29th International Audio Drama Competition (previously the International Playwriting Competition) which opens for entries on 19 February 2025.

The global competition, hosted by BBC World Service and the British Council, offers the unique opportunity for writers to use the medium of audio drama to tell stories for an international audience.

There are two categories: ‘English as a First Language’ and ‘English as a Second Language’. Winners will receive a cash prize, be invited to attend an award ceremony in the UK in 2026, and to participate in the recording of their dramas for a world premiere on BBC World Service platforms. A Special Commendation will be made for the runner-up in honour of the BBC World Service journalist and writer Georgi Markov (1929-1978).

The last competition in 2023 attracted 677 entries from 94 countries, with regional winners coming from the USA, Lebanon, Nigeria and Australia.

The winner in the First Language category was The Mighty Corbeau, written by Julien Marvin Neaves from Trinidad and Tobago. It tells the story of an ageing calypso singer who decides to come out of retirement to prove, once and for all, that he is better than his rival of many years. In the Second Language category, Michaela Kwon from South Korea won with her bold and imaginative drama Steady Eyes about a family from Seoul dealing with a world in which a mysterious force starts abducting animals.

Nadya Todorova from Bulgaria won the Georgi Markov commendation with Slamming Doors, a funny and sharply observed relationship drama about the lies we tell and the secrets we keep.

Former winner Michaela Kwon, says: “The International Playwriting Competition provided me with not only the best platform any writer could dream of debuting through, but also an unforgettable week at Broadcasting House, during which I learnt so much and made lifelong friends. I am ever so grateful for the opportunity and will always be proud to be a part of it.”

Former winner Julien Marvin Neaves, says: “Amazing. Life changing. Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. These may all sound like hyperbole, but that was my experience as a winner of the BBC and British Council International Radio Playwriting Competition. From touring the culture-rich city of London to seeing The Mighty Corbeau come to the life with an excellent cast and crew to a wonderful friendship with my co-winner, it was more than I could ever have imagined. As a writer, it has become a major milestone in my career and for that I will forever be grateful. Thanks again to the BBC and the British Council for this amazing, life-changing, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Simon Pitts, Commissioning Editor BBC World Service English, says: “We are pleased to announce the 29th International Audio Drama Competition, which celebrates emerging talent and storytelling through the exciting medium of audio drama. The competition discovers and develops voices from all around the world,  showcasing original stories that bring new perspectives to life. 

“Once again, two winning writers will be developing their scripts and participating in the studio sessions together with the BBC drama team and a professional cast.  Last year’s winning entries The Mighty Corbeau and Steady Eyes were beloved by BBC World Service listeners, and we look forward to sharing more outstanding work on our global stage.”

Neil Webb, Director Theatre and Dance, British Council, says: “At the British Council, we help talented people find new opportunities and collaborate internationally, thereby growing the UK and international creative sectors. We’re excited to launch a fresh round of this inspiring competition, searching for writers who have stories to share and who are intrigued by the unique possibilities of audio drama.”

“This is a significant opportunity for two writers to work with the BBC to bring their plays to production and find a global audience. Last year’s winning entries brought us thoughtful, humorous voices from South Korea and Trinidad and Tobago, and I can’t wait to see (or hear) what writers around the world are thinking and dreaming about at this moment in time.”

The shortlisted scripts and judging panel will be announced in due course. Previous judges have included Kwame Kwei Armah, Dame Eileen Atkins, Doris Lessing, Roy Williams, Patricia Cumper and Nina Sosanya.

The International Audio Drama Competition welcomes scripts from anyone outside the UK, whether established or new writers. The dramas need to be between 40-50 minutes long and can be on any subject. The closing date for entries is 11.00 GMT on Wednesday 4 June 2025. Further details on the competition can be found at bbcworldservice.com/dramacompetition, where you’ll find full terms and privacy notice.

[Source: BBC press release]